NEW YORK - Senior David Najem from men's soccer and first-year field hockey player Katie Ruesterholz have been named Columbia Student-Athletes of the Month for September.

Najem has already posted career-highs of four goals and 10 points, which are both tops in the Ivy League, in just seven contests. Named Ivy League Co-Player of the Week on Sept. 23, Najem's strong month has helped the Lions post a 5-2 record, their best start to a season since 2002. He also ranks 24th in the nation, averaging 1.67 points per game.

Ruesterholz made quite a first impression, setting Columbia's record for most goals by a first-year with nine. She ranks first in the Ivy League with 20 points and is tied for the conference lead in goals. Ruesterholz has four multi-goal games this season and was named Ivy League Rookie of the Week on Sept. 9 and Oct. 1. Additionally, she closed September in the top-10 nationally in points (2.50) and goals (1.13) per game.